SYRACUSE -- A majority of the 2015 graduating class doesn't want him to speak, but the president of Le Moyne College says Cardinal Timothy Dolan will speak at this year's commencement regardless.
Dolan is the leader of the Roman Catholic archdiocese of New York. Some say he has some controversial views, specifically his stance on gay marriage and his handling of allegations of child sexual abuse against priests. However, the Le Moyne administration is thrilled to have him speak, saying he's arguably the most influential leader within the U.S. Catholic Church.
The students aren't nearly as thrilled. More than 300 signed a petition on change.org. There are roughly 600 students in the graduating class. While not every person who signed the petition is a senior, it's fair to say a majority of students who will be attending commencement will not be happy to hear it's star speaker.
Le Moyne president, Linda LeMura says it doesn't bother her. In fact it makes her proud.
"In reality I see it as a great call for celebration. Our students are questioning decisions we've made. They want to understand the rationale at a deeper level. They're indicating concern for members of society that are historically marginalized. I think Cardinal Dolan will take some joy in the fact that our students are well educated and want more questions answered. It's a sign of engagement," says LeMura.
LeMura says Cardinal Dolan has been informed of the petition, but it hasn't deterred him from speaking.
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